Hair extensions have quickly become the hottest fashion accessory in Hollywood. Glamorous, however, shouldn't be an adjective reserved only for celebrities. Hair extensions make it easier than ever to look like a star. Extensions can be added for a color change, thickness, or beautiful length.
Here are the two types of extensions that I recommend.
Method 1. I-Tip or Micro Bead Extensions.
Many stylists love beaded extensions because the bead does all the work. Beaded extensions are really easy to adjust and tighten, plus they offer flexibility. Each strand has 360 degree movement making styling easy. They’re also ideal for humid, wet climates.
Since inception, I-Tip has retained its comfortable, natural flare allowing clients to enjoy extensions without the hassle of heat, glue, or tape to install. This means no chance of damage to the client’s hair! Instead, I-Tip is installed with tiny hair-colored beads that crimp flat against the extension and natural hair strand holding them together. For stylists, I-Tip is considered the easiest professional method to remove and reinstall. There’s no mess - just beautiful, full-bodied hair.
Flat-Tip
Flat-Tip is a more recent method and its magic comes from it’s blending capabilities as it essentially blends all the best parts of I-Tip and Tape-In methods, producing the safest, swiftest, most flowy finish you could imagine. Flat-Tip features a flat extension weft tipped with the classic I-Tip “shoelace” head (better known as aglet) and is attached to the hair in the same way as I-Tip - with a bunch of beautifully blended beads.
Flat-Tip, I-Tip—What’s the Difference?
What exactly is the difference between Flat-Tip and I-Tip? Even though both of these methods are installed with the same general tactics and tools, they ultimately achieve somewhat different end results.
Flat-Tip is a hybrid method.
While I-Tip is one of our classic, core three hair extension methods (alongside Fusion and Tape-In), Flat-Tip is a mix of two of those methods. Flat-Tip exists at the intersection of I-Tip and Tape-In, bearing the aglet-like tip of an I-Tip strand with the hair extension spread of a Tape-In weft. This is critical, because strands and wefts have totally different feels to them. So the fact that Flat-Tip is both a strand and a weft means that it boasts the advantages of both types—namely, the chemical-free installation and 360 degree movement of a strand, plus the flat comfort and greater hair distribution of a weft.
I-Tip is all strand.
While I-Tip and Flat-Tip share the traits of chemical-free installation and 360 degree movement, unlike Flat-Tip, I-Tip does not lay against the hair in flat strips. This means that the hair in I-Tip extensions does not spread as much as the hair in Flat-Tip extensions, and cannot achieve quite the same level of overall lightness (otherwise you risk the extensions looking stringy!). On the flip side, though, this also means that you can achieve slightly more volume with I-Tip extensions, since they do not lay flat against the hair and can be placed closer together.
Their installation is not exactly the same.
As we mentioned in that last point, Flat-Tip and I-Tip installation will differ with regard to extension placement, in that Flat-Tip extensions should be positioned at a slightly greater distance from each other than I-Tip extensions. Again, this is because of the weft-like nature of Flat-Tip extensions, which spreads the hair from an extension strand to a wider surface area. While this difference may seem pretty minimal, it can actually have a big effect on your installation process, since you’ll have to pay attention not only to the spacing of the beads, but also to the spacing of the weft part of the Flat-Tip extensions, making sure they don’t overlap any of the other extensions.
They provide different types of flexibility to the client.
Both I-Tip and Flat-Tip allow for easy, natural hair movement thanks to their strand-by-strand installation, but they provide slightly different kinds of flexibility with different kinds of movements. I-Tip lends itself well to flexible hair styling—like up-dos, side buns, and high ponytails—since the cylindrical I-Tip strand blends perfectly into the circular shape of the natural hair section. Flat-Tip extensions can be worn in all the same styles as I-Tip extensions, of course, but you may have to take extra care to ensure that the corners of the Flat-Tip weft don’t poke out of the hairdo, depending on how you’re styling it. Flat-Tip, however, blends seamlessly into loose hair, not just in terms of appearance, but also in terms of experience. The weft part of the extension rests flat against the client’s scalp, mirroring the smoothness of the natural hair.
Both I-Tip and Flat-Tip are wonderful choices for almost any client, but they aren’t exactly alike!
Method 2. Sew-In Extensions
Sew-In Wefts create volume and length in minutes and only need to be moved up every 6-8 weeks. Because of the beaded track they are installed on, they can be seamless for thin, medium, and thick haired clients depending on the sew-in method you choose. They are comfortable to wear and work well with many hairstyles. Move over tape-ins, sew-ins are becoming the new fav!
Hand-Tied Weft
Hand-Tied Wefts give the flexibility and customization needed for your finer haired clients while giving desired length and volume at the same time. These wefts are actually hand-stitched to create the weft instead of being sewn by a machine - giving the weft it’s signature look and feel. Hand-Tied Wefts are installed by sewing onto a beaded track of silicone beads and can be layered on itself to create more volume. These wefts deliver instant results and long lasting wear.
Machine Sewn Weft
Machine Sewn Wefts, brings instant length and serious volume, FAST! Like the Hand-Tied Weft, it uses the same installation method of sewing each weft onto a track of silicone beads. However, it differs on how it’s made and what customization features it offers. Machine Sewn Wefts come with three wefts pre-layered together to triple the volume - this will be a great match for medium to thick haired clients. You can also deconstruct this weft to better fit your client’s natural hair, and because it’s machine sewn, you’ll never need to worry about gluing it since the machine bond is stitched together tightly.
What is the difference between Machine Sewn Wefts and Hand Tied Wefts?
Both seem pretty similar, right? They’re installed by using the same techniques and can be customized to fit all clients. But there are some major differences between the two.
First, and the most significant, is the amount of volume each weft has to offer. Machine Sewn Wefts come pre-layered with three wefts sewn together to triple volume in your client’s natural hair. If these wefts seem too heavy for someone with finer hair, they can be deconstructed into single wefts. Thank you, customization! Hand Tied Wefts are much lighter and more flexible.
How do I choose the right sew-in method for me?
Determining the right sew-in method all comes down to the natural thickness of your client’s hair. Machine Sewn Wefts are great for those who have a medium to thicker texture because the wefts come pre-layered. If you’re looking for a little more flexibility and customization for your clients with finer hair, then Hand Tied Wefts are going to be your best choice.
Hair Extensions Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a consultation?
Yes, a consultation is required to decide if this service is right for you and to answer your questions. During the consultation, your stylist will analyze your hair to determine the color, type, and quantity of extensions you will require to acheive your desired look.
Are hair extensions suitable for me?
Hair extensions are perfect for most people. However, there could be factors, such as unsuitable current hair condition, hair loss, or hair damage that could prevent extensions from being an option.
Is the hair good quality?
The best quality 100% Human Remy hair.
Can you match my hair color and texture?
Yes. The hair comes in over 25 different colors and a few textures. Colors are typically blended using at least 2 different colors for the most beautiful effect.
How long does my hair need to be? How long CAN it be with extensions?
Your hair should be at least 3-4 inches for thickening or volume and at least 4-5 inches for a full lengthening. Extensions are available in 18”, &, 22”.
How are they applied?
I-Tip
This method involves attaching the extension to the hair using a tiny, color-matched metal bead. There are several advantages to this method; the extension hair can be reused after removal, the extension can be applied and removed without the use of messy latex bond and they are relatively easy to install. Micro-bead extensions can last up to six months with proper care. Most clients and stylists prefer micro-bead hair extensions as they can be adjusted (moved closer to the scalp) as the natural hair grows. Micro-Bead extensions are almost always the choice for clients who are concerned with damage to their natural hair.
Sew-In Methods
Sew-In Wefts create volume and length in minutes and only need to be moved up every 6-8 weeks. Because of the beaded track they are installed on, they can be seamless for thin, medium, and thick haired clients depending on the sew-in method you choose. They are comfortable to wear and work well with many hairstyles. Move over tape-ins, sew-ins are becoming the new fav!
How long does it last?
With proper care, extensions can stay in your hair for up to six months. There are variables with each person that will be discussed during the consultation.
How long does the process take?
The time varies depending on the desired look. It can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours.
Does it hurt?
No, properly applied extensions will not hurt. There will be some discomfort during application and it may take a few days to become accustomed to the weight of the hair. Some clients report mild headaches for the first few days or so.
Can I treat my hair the same as before?
The correct brushes, cleansing and styling products will be recommended. It is important to follow the recommendations made by your stylist. Some additional care will be required to get the most out of the application. This will be explained during your consultation.
Can I swim in a pool and go to the beach?
Swim, dance, play tennis, ski. It’s all fine so long as you use the proper hair care products and methods to keep your hair clean and healthy. Your stylist will discuss this during your consultation.
Can I have my hair colored with extensions?
Yes, a professional colorist will have no problem maintaining your hair color. If you decide you want a color change, you will most likely have to replace your extensions as it will be almost impossible to get them to match the new color of your natural hair.
Will extensions ruin my hair?
No! With regular maintenance, you can wear extensions for years without adverse effects. As long as they are put in well and you do your part to care for them (washing appropriately, getting them tightened every 2-3 months) your extensions will be as good to you as you are to them. Extensions won't cause breakage. All of the lost hair when you take them out is due to daily shedding – everyone loses between 100-200 hairs a day, and when they're stuck in extensions they're not falling out.
How much does it cost?
Cost depends on many factors including, length, type, and quantity, and the condition of your hair. The price is broken into 2 parts; the cost of the hair and the cost for application. There are many factors that can impact the overall cost. This will be discussed fully during your consultation. As your hair will be custom-ordered for you, most stylists will charge for the hair when it is ordered.
Hair Extension Aftercare:
1. Brush with care: Brush 2-3 times a day using the Babe Extension Brush only (do
NOT use wet brushes, combs). Brush by holding the bond or weft (attachment area)
with one hand, and start brushing the ends first. Work from the ends up to the root
area, being careful NOT to gently brush at the root area. Section hair and repeat for
each row of extensions.
2. Wash with care: Always brush before washing, using your Babe Extension Brush
only. Use a professional SULFATE-FREE shampoo and conditioner. Be sure to wash
and condition gently by using the pads of your fingers in between rows, and the palm
of your hands to run shampoo/conditioner in a downward motion through ends. AVOID
washing your hair upside down or scrunching/piling on top of your head.
3.Blowdrying & Styling: Choose hydrating or moisture-replenishing professional
products to keep your extensions moisturized (ex: leave-in conditioner, oils, heat
protectant). Apply conditioner and products carefully (avoiding the bonded or weft
attachment area). Blow dry in a downward motion, to keep the hair smooth and tanglefree.
Use your Babe Extension Brush in wet or dry hair to de-tangle and/or blowout.
DO NOT blow dry upside down or roughly.
4. Bedtime Routine: Brush using your Babe Extension brush (making sure each layer/
row of extensions is brushed carefully). Secure your hair into a low, loose ponytail or
braid hair before bed. Sleeping with a satin pillow case is also a great way to care for
your extensions, and prevent breakage. NEVER go to bed with wet hair. This can
cause tangling/matting and breakage.
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DO’S:
• Use Extension Brush 2-3 times a day
• Pull hair into a loose ponytail/braid for bed
• Avoid salty or chlorinated water
• Apply oils/sprays mid-shaft to ends
• Use sulfate-free professional shampoos
DONT’S:
• Wash hair too much
• Go to bed with hair wet
• Overuse heat tools
• Expose extensions to tanning beds or sprays
**Always consult with your stylist regarding product usage, care and styling routines**
